I would feel self conscious if it were co-workers who knew me as a drinker. I always used the antibiotics excuse but if it is healthcare do that wouldn't fly! It's a lot easier going to a function where people didn't know you as a drinker of course.
Sounds like you did great. I'm a few years down the line so i'm less self conscious than i was but in a situation like a golf tournament where there is a meal afterwards and everyone is getting smashed then i do feel self conscious and don't stick around too long but then i am leaving with the lifelong non drinkers so it probably seems normal?!
You are very normal with how you feel and would have to be quite mental to not feel self conscious at a drinking event. Kind of like going to an orgy and sitting in the corner with your clothes on, would you feel self conscious? Lol